Gods' Meeting before the Trojan War (2)

For all the strength of the warriors Hera had named, none could ignore the force of Apollo's declaration. He was, after all, one of the Twelve Olympians—and aside from Zeus himself, many considered him the strongest among them. 

The tension in the hall of the gods was palpable as Apollo's serious face turned toward Hera. The air felt thick, the divine energy swirling between them, and for a brief moment, the other gods found themselves holding their breath. Even the mighty Ares, who usually thrived in such intensity, glanced sideways.